Diagnosis of Addison’s Disease or Adrenal Insufficiency
Some of the ways of diagnosing this disease are given below:
- Physical examination: The doctor will check the symptoms of the patient and will do a physical exam. Dark patches on your skin may act as a sign for the doctor to consider further investigation to confirm Addison’s disease.
- Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Stimulation Test: In this test, a shot of artificial Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is given to test the adrenal glands’ response to adrenal glands. After the shot if the adrenal glands produce a very small quantity of cortisol, it indicates the poor function of the adrenal glands.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests will be performed to check the levels of ACTH, cortisol, sodium, and potassium, in patients’ blood samples.
- X-rays: These are used to check evidence of calcium deposits over adrenal glands.
- Computed Tomography: A CT scan might be recommended to analyze the adrenals and pituitary gland. For example, it can detect the current situation of adrenal glands and the extent of damage caused to it.
Understanding Addison’s Disease
Addison’s Disease is a rare but serious condition arising because of insufficient adrenal hormone production. Learn about its symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure, and its potential complications. Understanding Addison’s disease is important for early detection and management, as prompt treatment with hormone replacement therapy can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
In this article, we will cover Addison’s disease causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and more in detail.
Table of Content
- What is Addison’s Disease?
- Addison’s Disease Symptoms
- Addison’s Disease Causes
- Adrenal Exhaustion
- Acute Adrenal Failure (Addisonian crisis)
- Diagnosis of Addison’s Disease or Adrenal Insufficiency
- Adrenal Insufficiency or Addison’s Disease Treatment
- Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Glucocorticoid Replacement
- Mineralocorticoid Replacement
- Stress Management and Education
- Dietary Considerations
- Difference Between Addison’s Disease and Cushing Syndrome
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